Definition: An atlas is a male figure used in place of a column to support an entablature or other projection as on the Greek temple (c. 500 B.C.) of Zeus at Arigentum, Sicily. A cayratid is a female figure used to replace a column. Atlantes (the plural of atlas) are posed like Atlas supporting the heavens. In Roman architecture, the male counterpart of the caryatid is known as a telamon.
Also Known As: Telamon
